Car maintenance is more than just routine repair; it's also about keeping yourself and other safe on the road. Halloween night can turn frightening when you're behind the wheel, dodging ghouls, goblins, super heroes, and spooky vampires who cross the street without thinking, clutching their bulging bags of candy.

Proper brake maintenance is critical, because breaks wear out periodically, and if not replaced, can lead to serious consequences. If your car's breaks begin to fail, you will likely notice all or some of the following

Your car will pull to one side during braking. The brake pedal pulsates when brakes are applied. The brake pedal has a mushy feel. There is a noise when stepping on the break pedal such as rubbing or a grinding sound. There is a constant need to add break fluid to the master cylinder which probably indicates a leak in the brake lines somewhere.

Brakes are the most crucial part of a vehicle, and the brake calipers must be regularly cleaned. Brakes should be adjusted upon install to make sure that they are not too loose or too tight. If your brakes become wet, you can dry them out by placing your left foot on the brake pedal and moving the throttle gently with your right foot.

When preparing to perform a brake and car care maintenance checkup, make sure to do the following: Check the fluid levels. Check the brake line for rust and or punctures.

Examine the brake hoses for cracking or brittleness. Check the linings of the brakes for brake fluid, grease, or wear. Check the wheel bearings and grease seals. And finally adjust the parking brake.

If you are the parent of one of those little Halloween creatures of the night, be sure to remind them of the proper safety precautions, using the crosswalks, making sure that the road is clear before crossing, wearing something reflective to catch the headlights of cars, avoid crossing through yards, looking left, right, and left again before crossing, and wearing flame retardant clothing.

Brake, and car care maintenance, is vital for your safety, the safety of your car, the safety of your passengers, and the safety of others on the road. Simple steps now can help prevent major catastrophes later, and can help ensure the longevity of your vehicle.

Car care maintenance does not have to difficult, and it should not be, provided that you take the necessary steps and precautions to help keep your vehicle running efficiently and operating safely.